The Hydration Myth Debunked Learn the truth behind hydration; are you drinking enough water?

You’ve heard it a thousand times: “Drink eight glasses of water a day.” But what if we told you that rule is outdated—and possibly doing more harm than good?

At WKND EDIT, we’re all about redefining wellness on your terms. So, we went deep into hydration culture and spoke with leading Australian experts to decode the truth about water, wellness, and what your body really needs.

What Does “Hydration” Actually Mean?

Hydration isn’t just about chugging water. It’s about maintaining fluid balance in your cells, tissues, and organs so that your body functions optimally. Think: clear thinking, radiant skin, better sleep, and balanced hormones.

Transitioning into the science:

While water is essential, overhydration is a real thing too. Drinking too much without replenishing electrolytes can lead to fatigue, brain fog, and even mineral imbalances.

The Missing Link: Electrolytes

Most hydration advice skips over a key piece of the puzzle: electrolytes. These tiny minerals—like sodium, magnesium, and potassium—help your body absorb water more effectively.

“When clients complain about drinking tons of water but still feeling tired or bloated, I always check their electrolyte intake,” says Australian naturopath and gut health expert, Mark Payne 

Instead of plain water all day, try sipping on electrolyte-balanced drinks, especially after exercise or when you’ve had a salty meal.

Try this internal ritual: Add a pinch of Himalayan salt and a squeeze of lemon to your morning water. It’s a simple mineral hack we swear by at WKND EDIT.

What About Coffee and Matcha?

Contrary to the myth, coffee and tea don’t “dehydrate” you. They do act as mild diuretics, but if you’re already hydrated, a morning matcha (like our fave from Dirt Tea Matcha) won’t derail your wellness routine.

Still, we recommend pairing your caffeine with a full glass of water—a gentle reset for your adrenals and skin.

Hydrating Through Food? Yes, Please.

Here’s a chic wellness tip: Not all hydration comes from what you drink.

Foods like cucumber, watermelon, celery, and strawberries are rich in water and minerals—making them a perfect add-on for your daily hydration ritual.

In fact, research from the University of Queensland found that eating water-rich foods contributes significantly to hydration levels, especially in warmer climates. (Source)

So, Are You Drinking Enough?

Forget counting glasses. Start tuning into biofeedback.

Look for these signs of proper hydration:

• Your skin feels supple.

• You’re urinating every few hours (and it’s pale yellow).

• You feel alert, not foggy or sluggish.

And if you’re unsure, we recommend using a hydration reminder app or setting an hourly alarm (we love Tide for minimalist wellness support).

Make Hydration Ritual, Not Routine

Hydration isn’t about discipline—it’s about flow. Instead of guzzling water out of guilt, start integrating beautiful, intentional hydration moments into your day.

• Begin with a morning elixir: lemon, salt, chlorophyll.

• Sip herbal teas (like rose or hibiscus) in the afternoon.

• Wind down with magnesium-rich water or an adaptogenic tonic.

And if you’re building a full ritual, explore our Sleep & Aromatherapy collection to support your hydration from the inside out.